Trump Set to Attend Game 3 of NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden

Former President Donald Trump is expected to be present at Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals, featuring the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This information comes from reports by The Athletic and the New York Post.

The Athletic indicated that Trump’s attendance is planned for June 3, pending any alterations to his schedule, citing unnamed sources from the league. Meanwhile, the New York Post reported that Madison Square Garden conducted security walkthroughs in advance of the potential visit.

USA TODAY has reached out for comments from the White House, Madison Square Garden, the NBA, and the Knicks. During a cabinet meeting on May 27, Trump hinted at attending one of the games at the Garden, noting that he had received invitations from several individuals, including Knicks owner Jim Dolan. "I think I'll be going to one of the games," Trump stated, adding, "I was invited by numerous people and Jim and I think I'll be going."

A spokesperson for Madison Square Garden previously commented that "the President of the United States — no matter who is in office — is always welcome at all our venues." If he attends, Trump will become the first sitting U.S. president to witness an NBA Finals game and the first to attend any NBA game since Barack Obama watched the Chicago Bulls defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015.

The Knicks are in the finals for the first time since 1999, a moment that has energized basketball fans across the city. However, Trump's attendance could stir mixed reactions in the predominantly Democratic city. Throughout his second term, Trump has made numerous appearances at major sporting events, including the Super Bowl and the Ryder Cup, and he attended a UFC event as President-elect in 2024.